Medical Education 4.0: Results of the VII Central Asian Forum in Karaganda

The VII Central Asian International Scientific and Practical Conference on Medical Education, titled "Medical Education 4.0: Global Trends and Local Solutions," took place in Karaganda Medical University to mark its 75th anniversary. Over 100 participants attended the forum, including experts from Kazakhstan, Central Asian countries, Russia, Europe, and the West Indies. Representatives from ministries of health, foreign universities, and international projects and organizations were among those in attendance.

The purpose of the conference is to discuss current global trends in medical education, share best practices among Central Asian countries and international partners, and delve into effective local solutions for upgrading and improving medical training quality in the face of digitalization and healthcare transformation.

Prior to the conference, attendees got the opportunity to learn about recent developments in medical technology and equipment. The exhibits comprised a variety of simulators, virtual rehabilitation technology, robot simulators for pathologists, and educational programs based on artificial intelligence.

Timur Muratov, Vice-Minister of Healthcare of the Republic of Kazakhstan, opened the ceremony by reading a letter of congratulations from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The letter emphasized Karaganda Medical University's significant contribution to the advancement of national healthcare. The head of the state noted that the university has trained thousands of qualified professionals, is internationally recognized, and maintains high educational standards.

Furthermore, Yermagambet Bulekpayev, the Akim (Governor) of Karaganda Region, highlighted the university's importance as a regional symbol and alma mater of leading specialists in both Kazakhstani and international medicine, congratulating the university on its anniversary.

Acting Chairman of the Board - Rector Victor Ricklefs, expressed confidence that the forum will give an important boost for future progress in the sector. He stated that the visit of international experts allows for a better understanding of global trends, and the university's task is to adapt these to the local context by incorporating modern technologies such as simulation-based training and artificial intelligence, while adhering to the fundamental principles of medical education.

The conference is held every other year. The event for this year marked not just the university's anniversary, but also the International Year of Glaciers' Preservation. The theme focused on key elements in the transformation of medical education.

In conclusion, Acting Chairman of the Board - Rector Victor Ricklefs, on behalf of the whole university staff, expressed gratitude to all participants for their active involvement and contributions. Particular appreciation were offered to the speakers and sponsors, who were presented with appreciation letters. The rector also offered to pass on the baton of hosting the conference to other universities, expressing hope that this significant initiative will continue in new academic contexts.

You can download the conference photos using the link: kgmukz-my.sharepoint.com